Loe raamatut: «Augmented and critical thinking»

© Zero Ash, 2023

ISBN 978-5-0060-8767-5

Created with Ridero smart publishing system

Augmented and critical thinking

A study of critical thinking, generative AI, possibilities and risks of augmentation with personal intelligence

2023 0ash

Generative AI has happened, there are new tools to help solve any problem. Augmentation or empowerment, but, as usual, there are significant risks.

Critical thinking is something to rely on and not to get lost in this flow of changes, not to be left behind in progress and evolution, not to fall into possible traps and problems. Critical thinking can and should be constantly trained to meet the challenges of our time. Of course, there are already many books, courses, etc. about critical thinking. But despite the fact that a lot of material has been created, relevance is the most important criterion. Thinking is an eternal topic that requires constant study, development, critical thinking and rethinking. Therefore, updating approaches and knowledge in the context of rapidly developing technologies, especially generative and personal AI, is not only relevant but also useful. The text is divided into small blocks (a couple of minutes to read), which can be studied or skipped in any sequence. The most valuable thing is critical comments and humor, of course, you can’t do without it, it plays its own important role in critical thinking. Enjoi! And, let’s think critically, otherwise they will think for you.

«Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.» – Marcus Aurelius. It only remains to add that with the advent of generative AI, the relevance of this opinion only increases.

«People say one thing, think another, do a third» – there is such, quite interesting and quite plausible assessment of human thinking.

«Artificial intelligence is used by those who lack natural intelligence» – a joke about those who don’t keep up with progress.

«People can be considered to have two types of thinking: one fast – associative based on instant pattern recognition (experience), the other slow – logical (requires reasoning). In practice, they are intricately intertwined and interact".It seems AI has a similar situation: basic linguistic/multimodal modles (more associative) + chains of reasoning (chan of thoughts) based on these models.

«You need prompt engineering to get rid of the hallucinations of large language models» – seems to be relevant for humans too.

«People, most often, surround themselves with those who confirm their cognitive distortions» – only a few are able to work with different opinions and views to overcome distortions.

«From a personal computer (PC) to personal intelligence (PI)» – it’s scary to imagine what could happen next.

«Computational thinking» is like a calculator only for thoughts, where instead of numbers there is text in natural language (and, yes, there, too, the text is translated into numbers – embeddings).

«Even in ancient times, thinkers tried to build logical reasoning, to draw conclusions from one another, but this led to cycles in reasoning. Then the approach was changed – the basic set of axioms or facts that do not require proof was determined. And, already on the basis of these axioms, it was possible to erect logical reasoning and proofs of other statements.» – there is a significant vulnerability in this approach, it is possible to change some «fact» in their own interests so that all subsequent conclusions are also as needed. With rather complex constructions, it is quite time-consuming to detect such distortions, and even if this is done, it is impossible to reasonably challenge the «fact» (after all, facts are either taken for granted or not, they are not proven).

«Modern science is increasingly virtualized. Making new discoveries in the observable universe is becoming more and more difficult, today it is almost impossible even with super sophisticated equipment such as the LHC. And, bingo, why not invent virtual objects, like virtual particles, fields, whatever.» virtualization of science is an objective process, it cannot be stopped, it can only be regulated and as they often say – «if you can’t stop, lead». In fact, this is science fiction, and in modern conditions it is already difficult to understand where this line passes. For modern researchers, it is possible to regulate through explicit definition or labeling that their work contains such «virtualization».

«Even the greatest minds of mankind have not been able to build a fully grounded and logically rigorous picture of the world. All existing theories are just attempts to do this.» – there is no objective reality, there are always only some models of reality based on axioms without evidence. And another approach has not yet been invented. Can modern generative AI technologies help? A difficult question, probably not yet, since their output completely depends on the source datasets (texts, pictures, etc.). That’s when new AI systems will have direct opportunities to study the observable universe, set up experiments, test hypotheses, etc., then yes, a breakthrough in cognition is possible.

– — —

Critical thinking and common sense

Common sense thinking and critical thinking are two distinct cognitive approaches with different characteristics and applications.

Common sense thinking refers to the use of everyday, practical knowledge and reasoning based on generally accepted beliefs, norms, and experiences. It relies on the information and assumptions that are commonly shared within a specific culture or community.

Common sense thinking is often used for making quick and straightforward decisions in familiar, everyday situations. It is context-specific and may not involve in-depth analysis or evaluation of information.

Common sense thinking is typically intuitive and relies on assumptions that are accepted without rigorous examination. It is based on tradition and conventional wisdom.

The key differences between common sense thinking and critical thinking lie in their approach, depth of analysis, and the circumstances in which they are most applicable. Common sense thinking relies on everyday knowledge and is used for routine decisions, while critical thinking is a more rigorous, evidence-based process typically applied in complex or controversial situations where deeper analysis is required. Both types of thinking have their place, and a balance between them can be valuable in different aspects of life.

Critical Commentary. Guided by common sense, people can fail to think critically and make decisions for their own benefit, driven by fear, etc., based on generally accepted judgments, social consensus, and call it common sense. Besides, common sense doesn’t require explanation or proof («everyone does it» is the whole argument). There’s a joke. Why did common sense cross the road? To avoid meeting that guy who was still trying to figure out why the chicken crossed the road in the first place!

Critical thinking and rational thinking

Rational thinking and critical thinking are related concepts, but they have distinct differences in their focus and application.

Rational thinking is a cognitive process that emphasizes making decisions and judgments based on reason, logic, and evidence. It involves a systematic and objective analysis of information and situations.

Rational thinking aims to arrive at conclusions that are consistent with logical principles and supported by relevant evidence. It is concerned with ensuring that decisions and beliefs are well-founded and free from bias.

Rational thinking emphasizes the use of logic and evidence to arrive at reasoned conclusions. It strives to avoid fallacies and emotional biases in decision-making.

Rational thinking is a specific aspect of critical thinking, focusing on the rational, logical, and evidence-based aspects of decision-making and problem-solving. Critical thinking, on the other hand, encompasses a broader set of skills, including rational thinking, to comprehensively assess and make judgments about various aspects of life, information, and situations. Critical thinking emphasizes a more comprehensive evaluation of evidence, context, and potential biases.

Critical comment. Let’s start with a joke. Why did a rational thinker take a calculator to an art museum? Because he wanted to calculate the true value of abstract expressionism! Rational thinking is a tool that has its own field of application, you do not need to rely entirely on it alone.

Critical thinking and the scientific method

While critical thinking and the scientific method are related and often used together, they are distinct concepts.

Critical thinking is a cognitive process that involves analyzing, evaluating, and making reasoned judgments about information, situations, or problems.

Critical thinking is a broad skill that can be applied in various contexts, not just in scientific endeavors. It’s used in daily life, decision-making, problem-solving, and evaluating information in nay fields and situations.

Critical thinking includes skills like reasoning, analysis, interpretation, evaluation, and problem-solving. It encourages questioning assumptions, considering different perspectives, and making well-informed decisions.

The scientific method is a structured, systematic approach to scientific inquiry that involves making observations, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions based on empirical evidence.

The scientific method is designed for scientific research and study of the natural world. It is universal and is used to investigate and understand phenomena in physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, etc.

The scientific method follows a specific sequence of steps, including observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, data collection, analysis, and drawing conclusions. It emphasizes the use of controlled experiments and empirical evidence to test hypotheses.

Critical thinking is a more general cognitive skill that applies to a wide range of situations, not limited to the scientific domain. It involves the analysis and evaluation of information and arguments. The scientific method, on the other hand, is a specific process used by scientists to conduct research and gain a deeper understanding of the natural world. Critical thinking can certainly be a part of the scientific process, but the scientific method has a more defined and structured approach to inquiry.

Critical comment. Joke again. Why did a scientist break up with his girlfriend following a scientific method? Because they found that their relationship is not reproducible and has too many uncontrolled variables! Reproducibility of results is the basis of the scientific method. But there are many areas where accurate reproduction is impossible, and not necessary.

First principles and critical thinking

First principles thinking and critical thinking are both cognitive processes that involve reasoning, but they differ in their focus and approach.

First principles thinking is a problem-solving and decision-making approach that involves breaking down complex problems into their most fundamental elements or components. It seeks to understand a subject or situation from the ground up, starting with basic, self-evident truths or axioms.

This approach is often used in fields like engineering, physics, and entrepreneurship, where it’s essential to innovate and solve problems by reevaluating assumptions. For example, Elon Musk has popularized the use of first principles thinking in his business ventures, such as designing SpaceX rockets and Tesla electric cars.

First principles thinking involves deconstructing problems into their core components, questioning existing assumptions, and building solutions or insights from the ground up. It is particularly effective for creative problem-solving and innovation.

The primary difference between first principles thinking and critical thinking lies in their focus and purpose. First principles thinking is a problem-solving approach that aims to innovate by breaking down complex problems to their fundamental elements, while critical thinking is a more general cognitive skill used to evaluate information, arguments, and reasoning. Critical thinking can be applied in various contexts, including assessing the results and conclusions of first principles thinking, to ensure they are logically sound and valid.

First principles thinking is a powerful framework for innovation that involves breaking down complex problems into their fundamental elements and then reconstructing solutions from scratch, relying on basic principles and fundamental truths rather than existing conventions or assumptions. By questioning traditional approaches and starting from the most basic components of a problem, innovators delve deeper and develop creative, original solutions. This method encourages fresh thinking, enabling people to identify opportunities, solve complex problems, and pioneer new inventions in fields ranging from science and technology to business and design.

Critical commentary. The first principles are spoken about among techno entrepreneurs who are trying to create new solutions. We can say thinking based on first principles is a framework for innovation. The idea is simple, since we know that all knowledge systems are built on basic blocks of axioms and blocks of knowledge derived from logical conclusions. Then, in order to search for innovations, you can discard all existing old logically obtained blocks and try to build new ones. The most audacious can also revise the axioms. Such a revision of the foundations can lead to the so-called «disruption», that is, a fundamental change. But it’s not easy, the task is not just to come up with something new, but also more effective than the old one.

Logical and critical thinking

Logical thinking and critical thinking are related concepts, but they have distinct differences in their focus and application.

Logical thinking involves the use of formal and informal logic to arrive at valid conclusions or make sound judgments. It is primarily concerned with the structure of arguments and the consistency of reasoning.

Logical thinking is more focused on the rules and principles of logic, including deductive reasoning (drawing specific conclusions from general premises) and inductive reasoning (making general conclusions from specific observations).

Logical thinking emphasizes the identification and avoidance of logical fallacies, such as circular reasoning, false dichotomies, and non sequiturs. It aims to ensure that arguments follow a valid and coherent structure.

Logical thinking is a subset of critical thinking, focusing primarily on the structure of arguments and the application of formal and informal logic to ensure valid conclusions. Critical thinking is a more comprehensive cognitive skill that includes logical thinking but also extends to other skills that help individuals assess, analyze, and make reasoned judgments about various aspects of life and information, including ethical and practical considerations.

Critical thinking is a multifaceted cognitive skill that involves several components and is closely related to various aspects. When considering critical thinking, it’s important to take into account the following related concepts and factors: problem solving, decision-making, information literacy, analytical skills, inferential reasoning, deductive and inductive reasoning, skepticism, logic and logical fallacies, cognitive biases, emotional intelligence, ethical considerations, metacognition, open-mindedness, communication skills, problem identification, education and training, cross-disciplinary application (so many things!).

Understanding and developing these related aspects can help individuals become more proficient in critical thinking, which is a valuable skill in a wide range of personal, academic, and professional endeavors.

Critical comment. A joke about logic. Logician’s wife advised him to go to the store to buy a loaf of bread and if they have eggs, he will have to buy a dozen. The logician went to the store and returned home with 12 loaves of bread. His wife asked why he bought so many loaves of bread. The logician replied: «Because they had eggs!». You also need to use logical thinking critically.

Creative and critical thinking

Creative thinking and critical thinking are distinct cognitive processes that serve different purposes and have varying characteristics.

Creative thinking is the ability to generate innovative and novel ideas, solutions, and concepts. It involves thinking «outside the box» and exploring unconventional, imaginative, and original possibilities.

Creative thinking often involves diverging from traditional or established thought patterns to explore a wide range of ideas and perspectives.

Creative thinking requires using one’s imagination to come up with fresh and unique solutions or ideas.

Creativity thrives when individuals are open to new experiences, perspectives, and possibilities.

Creative thinking doesn’t follow a linear or structured process. It encourages exploration, experimentation, and free association of ideas.

Emotions and personal experiences can play a significant role in creative thinking, as they can inspire or inform the generation of new ideas.

Critical thinking is the process of objectively evaluating, analyzing, and assessing information, arguments, or situations to make well-informed decisions or judgments. It is a structured, systematic, and analytical approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

Critical thinking involves the careful examination and assessment of information, arguments, or evidence to determine their validity, relevance, and reliability.

Critical thinking relies on logical reasoning and sound argumentation. It aims to make decisions based on rationality and evidence.

Critical thinking seeks to minimize personal biases and emotions, focusing on objective and verifiable information.

While creative thinking generates ideas, critical thinking helps to choose the best among those ideas and formulate effective solutions.

Critical thinking often follows a structured process that includes identifying issues, gathering relevant data, evaluating options, and making reasoned judgments.

Creative thinking is about generating innovative and imaginative ideas, while critical thinking is about analyzing, evaluating, and making informed decisions based on evidence and logical reasoning. Both types of thinking are valuable and can complement each other in problem-solving and decision-making processes. Creative thinking can help generate a variety of solutions, while critical thinking can help assess those solutions and determine the most appropriate course of action.

Creative thinking is the ability to generate novel and imaginative ideas, solutions, and concepts by breaking away from conventional patterns of thought. It involves exploring new perspectives, making unexpected connections, and embracing a willingness to take risks and challenge established norms. Creative thinking is a valuable skill in problem-solving, innovation, and artistic expression, enabling individuals to tackle complex issues, foster innovation, and manifest their unique visions and ideas in a world that constantly demands fresh and inventive approaches.

Critical comment. Fun thought. Creativity is a lot like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to create, but it’s sure to be sweet!